'Smelly breath' and a 'metallic' taste in the mouth could indicate serious kidney problems
Having "smelly breath" and a "metallic" taste in your mouth could mean you have one of several kidney problems, a doctor has said.
Kidneys: Expert details the signs something might be wrong
Bad breath is often associated with poor oral hygiene - for example, not regularly brushing your teeth. While this can be a cause of the issue, it could also indicate something quite different. An expert spoke with Express.co.uk to explain more.
According to Doctor Paula Oliveira, bad breath can actually be a sign of kidney problems.
This is because they can lead to a build up of urea - the main compound of urine - in the body.
She said: “Kidney problems cause the accumulation of urea in the body. Excess urea in your system can affect your breath and taste.
“If you have kidney problems, your body loses its ability to clear out minerals.
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“Over time, the levels of these minerals increase in your bloodstream, promoting a metallic taste and smelly breath.”
Dr Oliveira shared more about some of the different types of problems that can affect the kidneys.
Polycystic kidney disease
Polycystic kidney disease is characterised by fluid-filled cysts in the kidney.
This genetic disorder makes the kidneys fail to function properly and can lead to kidney failure.
Fabry disease
Fabry disease is another genetic disorder.
It causes decreased blood flow to the kidney and other body parts.
If not treated, Fabry disease can lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis occurs when the filters in your kidneys are not functioning as they should.
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If ignored, this condition can lead to kidney failure.
Atypical hemolytic uremic (aHUS)
Atypical hemolytic uremic encourages the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels.
This causes decreased blood flow to the kidney and other organs, increasing the risk for kidney failure.
Kidneys are considered vital organs, meaning you cannot survive without them.
Their main job is to cleanse the blood of toxins and turn the waste into urine.
Together they filter around 200 litres of fluid every 24 hours.
Other signs that you could have kidney problems include:
- High blood pressure
- Extreme tiredness or lethargy
- Persistent headaches
- Swelling in the face and ankles
- Fluid retention
- Lower back pain.